Penguins to make game-time decision on Gonchar

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WASHINGTON -- Defenseman Sergei Gonchar participated in the Penguins' game-day skate with no apparent problem and will try his injured right knee again during warmups before Game 7 of the Penguins' second-round playoff series against Washington tonight at 7:08.

Coach Dan Bylsma said Gonchar "has been steadily improving," and that a decision on whether to dress him will be made after the warmups.

Gonchar worked in his usual spots on the No. 1 power-play unit and a defense pairing with Brooks Orpik at today's skate.

He was injured during Game 4 of the series Friday in a knee-on-knee hit by Washington left winger Alex Ovechkin and did not dress for Games 5 or 6.

Gonchar did not speak with reporters after today's skate.

The series is tied, 3-3. The winner of tonight's game will advance to the Eastern Conference final against the winner of tomorrow night's Game 7 between Boston and Carolina.